Brushing teeth twice a day is the foundation of a good oral hygiene routine. It is crucial to remove plaque, prevent cavities and bad breath and to keep teeth and gums healthy.
And while both electric and manual toothbrushes may be effective in cleaning teeth, and there are pros and cons for both.
There are already so many options in the market, but one common dilemma is whether a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush is more effective.
The manual toothbrush
The manual toothbrush has been a staple in oral care for decades. It is affordable, easily accessible and requires no additional equipment or charging.
Manual toothbrushes also come in various sizes, bristle types (soft, medium, or hard), and are designed to cater to individual preferences.
The effectiveness of a manual toothbrush lies in proper technique and consistent brushing habits. When used correctly, a manual toothbrush can effectively remove plaque and food particles, preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
But to get the best results, skilled manual labour is needed.
Electric toothbrushes
These toothbrushes have gained popularity in recent years due to their advanced features and potential benefits. They use oscillating, rotating or sonic technology to provide a more thorough and efficient cleaning experience.
The bristles move rapidly, helping to dislodge plaque and debris from the teeth and gums.
Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes, when used correctly, can be more effective at plaque removal compared to manual toothbrushes.
The rapid bristle movement and built-in timers in some models ensure that users brush for the recommended two minutes.
Additionally, electric toothbrushes may be beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those who struggle with proper brushing techniques.
And while the debate around which kind of tooth brush is better, Healthline reported that a review of studies has shown that electric toothbrushes are more effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis than their manual counterparts.
These studies showed that after three months of using an electric toothbrush, “plaque was reduced by 21% and gingivitis by 11%”.
Oral B also revealed that electric toothbrushes have been shown to remove more plaque than manual, delivering a more complete clean.
They also discovered that electric toothbrushes are far more effective at removing plaque, limiting its damaging effects on oral health.
Costs
When it comes to price, manual toothbrushes have a clear advantage. They are significantly more affordable compared to electric toothbrushes, making them accessible to a broader population.
On the other hand, electric toothbrushes tend to have a higher upfront cost. However, it is essential to consider the long-term investment and potential savings on dental treatments. Some electric toothbrush models offer replaceable brush heads, reducing waste and cost over time.
Additionally, the advanced cleaning technology and features may provide better oral health outcomes, which may lead to fewer dental issues and associated expenses in the future.
Both manual and electric toothbrushes can effectively clean your teeth when used correctly.
Regardless of the type of toothbrush you choose, what's important is to maintain proper brushing technique, brush for at least two minutes twice a day, and replace your toothbrush or brush head every three to four months or as recommended by your dentist.
Why are electric toothbrushes more effective?
The bristles in an electric toothbrush vibrate to remove the plaque build-up from teeth and gums. The rapid vibration allows for micro-movements when you move the brush across your teeth, resulting in more effective removal of plaque and debris from the teeth and gums.
It’s been established that electric toothbrushes are better than manual ones when it comes to removing plaque and debris from the teeth and gums. The less plaque, the less your chances of developing gum disease and cavities.
They’re beneficial for people with limited mobility
Electric toothbrushes do most of the work for you and are particularly helpful for people with mobility issues such as arthritis or carpal tunnel.
They are less wasteful
You only have to replace the head of the electric brush, not the entire item as you would with a manual toothbrush.
Special features
Some electric toothbrushes boast special features like built-in timers, different speeds and pressure sensors to ensure you get the most out of your brushing session.
Ultimately, the choice between a manual toothbrush and an electric toothbrush depends on personal preference, oral health needs, and budget considerations.